Forward Nelson Snake
Forward Nelson Snake (Class B→A)
Elite propulsion-weaving hybrid for high-density cone courses. Integrates vertical impulse with lateral redirection – demands microsecond air control.
Classification Evolution
Technical Execution
1. Load & Vectoring (0.15s)
- Stance: 70% rear foot, 30° lean toward next cone
- Kinetic Chain: Glute medius → quad activation → calf preload
B/A Rationale: Glute med pre-activation stabilizes the hip-knee axis (patellar shear ↓35%)
2. Flight & Redirect (0.25s)
- Air Adjustment: Thoracic rotation 15° counter to hip rotation
- Clearance: Hips >15cm above cone (WSSF Rule 8.4)
B/A Rationale: Counter-rotation creates angular momentum for landing redirection
3. Impact & Recoil (0.2s)
- Landing: Mid-foot strike → immediate edge shift
- Recovery: Knees rebend to 100° (±3°)
B/A Rationale: 100° flexion optimizes quad eccentric loading (force dissipation ↑40%)
Gear Impact
Coaching Progressions
1. B: Cone "ghosting" drills (hover skates 5cm above cones)
2. A: Blindfolded vectoring (auditory cues only) → develops proprioception
Combo Pathways
- Speed Control: Nelson Snake → Snake Push (D) → reset
- Elite: Nelson Snake → 360° spin → Toe One Wheel (A)
Physics & Safety
Injury Biomechanics: Ankle inversion >20° during landing → peroneal tendon strain
Mastery Metrics
Pro Tip
> "Launch toward the cone's future shadow" – elite skaters look two cones ahead* during flight. Hip rotation starts 0.05s before peak height (saves 0.1s/transition).*
WSSF Competition Utility
